Shawn Hewitt — Spare Hearts

Spare Hearts

EMI

Cameron Gordon (CHARTattack)

10/03/2008 3:09pm

Shawn Hewitt has spent the last five years toeing the Toronto underground, building buzz without the aid of a full-length album. His carnal blend of indie, art rock and soul has transfixed audiences and Spare Hearts is his attempt to bottle his stage show for listeners at home. The album's ambition makes it a bit daunting from the outset as it's challenging to pin down any commonalities since Hewitt's influences are so diverse. Luckily, the album coalesces with each successive listen and if you can give yourself at least half a dozen run-thorughs, you'll eventually get a clearer understanding of Hewitt's MO. The moody lead-off track "Keep Them At Bay" is perhaps the best indicator, so if you're looking for a disc to tide you over until the next Radiohead album, give Spare Hearts a shot.

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